5 Helpful PSAT Test Prep Strategies for Students

August 18, 2022 byAlyssa Austin

3 min to read

A high school student studyig on laptop computer

The PSAT is a helpful college preparatory tool for high school students that can ultimately provide an advantage when applying for college. If your student is wondering how to pass the PSAT, read on to gain a better understanding of what the test is and how to prep for PSAT success.

What Is the PSAT?

The PSAT, or the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, is a series of tests taken by eighth graders, ninth graders, and sophomores in high school to prepare for college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT, and potentially earn a National Merit Scholarship, based on performance.

Why Do PSAT Scores Matter?

In addition to giving students a benchmark for college entrance exam preparedness, the PSAT is also a vehicle for identifying areas of improvement for the SAT and ACT. The PSAT has two sections, Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing; each section is “scored on a scale of 160–760, making a “perfect” score 1520,” according to The Princeton Review. So, depending on their PSAT scores, students can gain some clarity on where they need to improve or invest in additional study resources for any future college entrance exams they will take.

Favorable PSAT scores can also earn students scholarships they can put toward college, since the PSAT is the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship.

5 Helpful PSAT Test Prep Strategies for Students:

1. Take a PSAT practice test.

One of the best ways to gauge readiness for the exam and prep for PSAT success is by taking a practice exam. PSAT practice tests are a great way to simulate the actual test experience in a pseudo-stressful environment and go through the motions of what will be expected on the day of the test to help you feel as prepared as possible.

2. Create a study plan.

The top PSAT prep strategy is to create and stick to a study plan. There are many PSAT test prep books that you can use as guidelines for studying, and numerous online resources for creating a study plan.

3. Identify strengths and weaknesses.

After taking a practice test is a good time to assess your strengths and weaknesses within the exam. For example, if you struggled with geometry on the PSAT, you should target that section as an area of focus for studying and future test prep.

4. Set goal PSAT scores to work toward.

There are many benefits to the practice of setting and working toward tangible goals, and the same can be said about the PSAT. Set specific score goals for each section and work backwards to determine how you can achieve these goals.

5. Don’t wait until the night before.

In terms of PSAT tips, night-before studying isn’t a good idea. The PSAT is not the type of test that you can “cram” for. Instead, the best thing you can do for your PSAT prep is to get a good night of sleep and go into the next day rested and primed for success.

With these PSAT tips, you’ll be able to create a study plan that you can feel good about and that increases your chances of favorable PSAT scores.